Congupna Bushland Reserve Environmental Management Plan

DEPARTMENT OF PRIMARY INDUSTRIES

This project is funded as part of the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority Regional Catchment Strategy in the Shepparton Irrigation Region and is provided with support and funding from the Australian Government and Victorian Government though the National Action Plan for salinity and water quality and the Natural Heritage Trust. This project is delivered primarily through partnerships between the Department of Primary Industries, Goulburn- Murray Water, Department of Sustainability and Environment, the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority and other bodies.

Published by: Department of Primary Industries Private Bag 1, Ferguson Rd, Tatura, Victoria, Australia September 2005

This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.

Authorised by: Victorian Government 1 Treasury Place Melbourne, Victoria 3000 Australia.

Printed by DPI, Tatura.

ISBN 1 74146 676 8

Disclaimer:

This publication may be of assistance to you, but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequences, which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication.

For more information about DPI visit the website at www.dpi.vic.gov.au or call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

Cover photographs Congupna Bushland Reserve, entrance (main photo) Eastern Rosella (Platycercus eximius) (inset) Gold-dust Wattle (Acacia acinacea) (inset) Laughing Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae) (inset)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This Plan could not have been developed without the help and assistance of numerous people. To all the members of the Congupna – Tallygaroopna Landcare Group thank you for your interest in the Congupna Bushland Reserve and its on-going management. For assisting with the development of this Plan, the following people are gratefully acknowledged: John Edwards, Carolyn Edwards and David Doyle. In particular we wish to the Goulburn Valley Irrigation Services for surveying the Reserve and developing a site plan.

Departmental staff who have provided a great deal of support and input into this Plan include Bruce Wehner (Parks Victoria), Rolf Weber (NRE), Dustin Lavery (former NRE), Malissa Walsh (former NRE) Marion Howell (former NRE). In particular we wish to acknowledge the efforts of Trudi Mullett, and Ann Roberts who have worked hard to put this plan together.

Finally we wish to acknowledge the support and funding provided by the SIR Implementation Committee of the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, in particular, Ken Sampson, for his patience and commitment to this project.

To all of the people who provided comment on the draft we are extremely grateful. The final thank you goes to Kate Brunt who wrote this management plan but relocated before all parties approved this plan.

ACRONYMS

CTLCG Congupna Tallygaroopna Landcare Group DNRE Department of Natural Resources and Environment, former government department that included activities of DPI and DSE.

DPI Department of Primary Industries DSE Department of Sustainability and Environment EMP Environmental Management Program, work group within the Catchment and Agricultural Section of Department of Primary Industries. GBCMA Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority SIR Shepparton Irrigation Region SIRCS Shepparton Irrigation Region Catchment Strategy SIRIC Shepparton Irrigation Region Implementation Committee PV Parks Victoria

FOREWORD

This Management Plan is the culmination of the effort of a number of dedicated people who share the vision of seeing Congupna Bushland Reserve remain as a viable and productive woodland ecosystem. It is intended that the Plan will further foster the partnerships between the relevant stakeholders.

It identifies the key stakeholders, including Government and non-government organisations who accept the management responsibilities assigned to them through the actions defined in the Management Plan.

The Plan has been developed as an adaptive management plan to enable management actions to be modified in response to the monitoring of the key biodiversity values.

Therefore all works and actions which may impact on the implementation of the Plan will only be carried out after consultation / approval from the identified key stakeholders and signatories to the Plan.

While implementation of the Plan is an adaptive process, the Plan will be formally reviewed when necessary to ensure that it remains a ‘living’ document. The review process will also be subject to consultation with, and sign off by, the identified key stakeholders.

The implementation of this Management Plan will be a prime model for partnerships in sustainable ecological management in the Goulburn Broken Catchment.

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Table of Content

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT ...... I

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...... II

ACRONYMS ...... II

FOREWORD ...... III

1 SUMMARY ...... 6

2 INTRODUCTION...... 7

2.1 PURPOSE...... 7 2.2 CONSULTATION PROCESS ...... 7 2.3 PLAN PERIOD AND REVIEW ...... 8 2.4 LOCATION AND ACCESS ...... 8 2.5 RESERVATION STATUS AND MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY...... 10 2.6 CONGUPNA-TALLYGAROOPNA LANDCARE GROUP ...... 10 2.7 LEGISLATION...... 10 2.8 STRATEGIES AND POLICIES...... 11 3 ECOLOGICAL VALUES...... 13

3.1 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESERVE IN A REGIONAL CONTEXT...... 13 3.2 PHYSICAL ASPECTS...... 14 3.2.1 Climate...... 14 3.2.3. Flooding Regimes and Drainage Characteristics ...... 15 3.3 BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS...... 16 3.3.1 Flora ...... 16 3.3.2. Landscape context...... 18 3.4 FAUNA...... 18 4 MANAGEMENT ISSUES ...... 19

4.1 RESERVATION STATUS AND MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY...... 19 4.2 POTENTIAL CHANGES TO RESERVATION STATUS AND MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY...... 19 4.2.1 Investigation into Box-Ironbark Forests and Woodlands...... 19 4.2.2 Native Title Application ...... 19 4.3 CURRENT LAND USE...... 19 4.3.1 Recreation...... 20 4.3.2 Trail Bike Riding...... 20 4.3.3 Grazing and Soil Disturbance ...... 20 4.3.4 Fire Wood Collection...... 21 4.3.5 Dumping of Rubbish and Garden Waste ...... 21 4.4 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT...... 21 4.4.1 Fire Hazard Management...... 21 4.4.2 Weed Management...... 21 4.4.3 Revegetation...... 22 4.4.4 Threatened Flora Species Management ...... 23 4.5 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT...... 23 4.5.1 Feral Animal Management ...... 23 4.5.2 Threatened Wildlife Management...... 24 4.6 CULTURAL HERITAGE ...... 24 4.7 SALINITY, WATERTABLE AND DRAINAGE ...... 25 4.8 SURROUNDING LAND USE ...... 25 4.9 MONITORING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS...... 25

5 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 26

5.1 POTENTIAL CHANGES TO RESERVATION STATUS AND MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY...... 27 5.1.1 Reserve Status and Responsible Management Authority...... 27 5.2 CURRENT LAND USE...... 27 5.2.1 Recreation...... 27 5.2.2 Timber Extraction ...... 28 5.2.3 Salinity and Watertables...... 28 5.2.4 Grazing ...... 28 5.3 VEGETATION MANAGEMENT...... 29 5.3.1 Fire Hazard Management...... 29 5.3.2 Weed Management...... 29 5.3.3 Revegetation...... 30 5.4 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT...... 30 5.4.1 Feral Animal Management ...... 30 5.5 CULTURAL HERITAGE ...... 30 5.6 SURROUNDING LAND USE ...... 31 5.7 MONITORING...... 31 5.8 ECOLOGICAL RESEARCH AND SURVEYS...... 31 5.9 SUMMARY OF ESTIMATED FUNDING REQUIREMENTS...... 32 5.9.1 Parks Victoria...... 32 5.9.2 Congupna – Tallygaroopna Landcare Group ...... 32 5.9.3 Shepparton Irrigation Region Implementation Committee ...... 32 6 REFERENCES ...... 33

7 APPENDICIES ...... 34

7.1 APPENDIX ONE: COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ...... 34 7.2 APPENDIX TWO: FINAL DRAFT ECC RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NATURAL FEATURE RESERVES (H) ...... 35 7.3 APPENDIX THREE: FLORA LIST...... 36

1 SUMMARY

The Congupna Bushland Reserve contributes to the regional network of habitat resources provided by remnants of Grey Box Grassy Woodland across the Shepparton Irrigation Region. The Reserve may not provide abundant habitat resources for a range of species, but it does provide an important “stepping stone” for mobile species such as birds and bats, and given its proximity to Shepparton, it has potential to provide a significant educational and passive recreation resource.

The Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) overstorey has shown signs of dieback. The dieback has not progressed since 2000. The grassy understorey is dominated by pasture grasses and other weed species, in particular Silverleaf Nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium) and Phalaris (Phalaris aquatica).

Trail bike riders once regularly used tracks in the reserve, which has resulted in the introduction of weed species and soil disturbance. Prevention of this activity through fencing of the reserve and removal of the dirt mounds created by the riders has successfully eliminated the use of the reserve as a trail bike track and limited the amount of disturbance in the reserve.

The Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group has undertaken some fantastic work at the Reserve and has expressed interest in being involved in the future management of the Reserve.

2 INTRODUCTION

Congupna Bushland Reserve is a 5-hectare Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) Grassy Woodland remnant near the township of Congupna in the Shepparton Irrigation Region (SIR). This area includes a section of the Pine Lodge Creek, which runs through the Reserve but excludes the 20-metre easement for the G-MW drain No. 11.

The vegetation of the Reserve is characteristic of many remnants of this size in the SIR. The mature Grey Box overstorey has shown signs of dieback and recent regeneration is fairly evenly aged. Since the original recording of dieback in 2000, no further trees have shown signs of dieback. River Red Gums (E. camaldulensis) occur in association with Pine Lodge Creek, which runs through the Reserve. Many of these individuals contain a number of hollows, providing a valuable resource for hollow dependent species at the site and in the surrounding landscape. The grassy understorey is dominated by pasture grasses and other weed species. A population of Silverleaf Nightshade (S. elaeagnifolium) is present and control of this aggressive weed species should be a management priority.

2.1 Purpose

The Environmental Management Program (EMP), Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Tatura, in consultation with Parks Victoria (Nathalia), and the Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group have produced this Plan on behalf of the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GBCMA). The purpose of this Plan is to provide direction on the future environmental management of Congupna Bushland Reserve. The main objectives of this Plan are the protection, restoration and enhancement of the conservation values of this important remnant.

This Plan provides direction for Parks Victoria (Nathalia Office), who are the responsible management authority.

2.2 Consultation Process

A list of agencies, groups and individuals involved in the planning process is provided in Appendix One. An informal meeting was held with two members of the Congupna- Tallygaroopna Landcare Group in May 2000, which identified some issues associated with the reserve. Based on this, a Draft Plan was produced.

A revised Draft Plan was produced in June 2000 and forwarded to the agencies and groups with identified management responsibilities, for further comment.

In September 2000 the Draft Management Plan was forwarded to Parks Victoria, Congupna- Tallygaroopna Landcare Group and SIRIC for endorsement.

The Plan was not progressed for several months due to a change in staff. After the appointment of a new staff member the Plan was updated early in 2002. Alterations made in the review were to update the Plan to identify actions that had occurred between September 2000 and April 2002.

In August 2002 the Draft Management Plan was once again forwarded to Parks Victoria, the Congupna – Tallygaroopna Landcare Group, and SIRIC for their comment and endorsement.

Due to staff changes in the department, the Draft Management Plan was not finalised in 2002. In February 2005 the Draft Management Plan was updated and forwarded to Parks Victoria, the Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group and SIRIC for their comment.

2.3 Plan Period and Review

The recommendations made in this Management Plan may require review within the next three years, or in response to changes in funding availability or advances in relevant management techniques.

The recommendations made in this Management Plan may also require review following the outcome of the Yorta Yorta Title determination. A review of the management prescriptions should be undertaken on a yearly basis or after the completion of major recommendations.

2.4 Location and Access

Congupna Bushland Reserve is located approximately 10km north east of Shepparton, on the corner of Lemnos North Road and Congupna East Road, east of the township of Congupna access to the Reserve is via Congupna-East Road.

AMG Coordinates Zone 55, Easting 362 233, Northing 5 981 723 and Crown land Parcel Numbers P160602 and P160603.

2.5 Reservation Status and Management Authority

Congupna Bushland Reserve (H49) is gazetted as Unreserved Crown Land under the Crown Lands (Reserves) Act 1978 and is currently managed by Parks Victoria (Nathalia).

The Land Conservation Council (LCC) recommended that the reserve be gazetted as a Bushland Reserve. A request has been made to Land Victoria in April 2002 to have the recommendation implemented. The LCC’s recommendation is still awaiting approval. Since the initial request, a Bushland Reserve is now known as a Bushland Area. This management plan complies with the conditions of Bushland Area tenure.

“The Land Conservation Council (LCC) was established by the Land Conservation Act 1970. As one of it’s three functions it makes recommendations to the Minister for Conservation with respect to the use of public land, in order to provide for the balanced use of land in Victoria.” (LCC, 1982)

2.6 Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group

Members of the Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group have expressed keen interest in the on going management of Congupna Bushland Reserve and the promotion of the importance of the Reserve and natural areas amongst the wider community. To date, the group’s involvement has been great, undertaking a number of activities aimed at restoring and enhancing the natural values of the site. The group’s commitment to the Reserve has ensured the success of the revegetation program and its general health.

2.7 Legislation

A broad range of legislation, strategies and policies influence the management of Congupna Bushland Reserve.

Crown Lands (Reserves) Act 1978 The Act provides for the reservation and management of Crown Lands for certain purposes, such as the conservation of areas of natural interest or beauty or biodiversity and sets down provisions for the formulation of a Committee of Management.

Parks Victoria Act 1998 This Act sets down the organisation and structure of Parks Victoria and regulation and operation procedures and guidelines.

Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 The Act seeks to put in place preventative management mechanisms to ensure no biota or ecological communities become extinct and that the processes that threaten biodiversity are identified and addressed. The Act is far broader than ‘endangered species’ legislation, covering ecological communities, potentially threatening processes, community involvement in conservation and a strategic approach to biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.

Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 This Commonwealth Act is to prevent further extinctions of Australian flora and fauna, and to restore endangered species and ecological communities to a secure status in the wild. A key objective of this Act is to promote the recovery of species that are considered nationally endangered and vulnerable. The Department of Environment and Heritage administer these programs.

Other relevant legislation:

STATE Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Preservation Act 1972 Wildlife Act 1975 Vermin and Noxious Weeds Act 1958 Environmental Protection Act 1970 Fences Act 1968 Country Fire Authority Act 1958 Local Government Act 1989 Water Act 1989 Lands Act 1958

COMMONWEALTH Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999 National Environment Protection Council Act 1994

2.8 Strategies and Policies

Victorian Biodiversity Strategy (1997) The Victorian Biodiversity Strategy makes a commitment to the Conservation of Victoria’s Biodiversity. The Strategy reports on the condition of each Bioregion and discusses the main pressures and threats. The Strategy recognises that “all natural ecosystems in the Victorian Riverina Bioregion have been depleted or highly modified, with only isolated vegetation patches remaining” (DNRE 1997, p. 70) and that “...all remaining areas are highly significant for biodiversity conservation” (DNRE 1997 p. 71).

Goulburn Broken Native Vegetation Management Strategy (August 2000) This strategy documents the current condition of native vegetation by Bioregion and broad vegetation type. Priorities and procedures for achieving best management of remnant vegetation in the Goulburn Broken Catchment are described. Cost sharing, institutional agreements, targets and indicators to measure performance over time are also discussed. The Vegetation Strategy is the forerunner to the Catchment’s Biodiversity Strategy. The draft of this Strategy has been adopted since 2000, along with Catchment Response to Draft Goulburn Broken Native Management Strategy (2000).

Shepparton Irrigation Regional Catchment Strategy (2002 –2007) This document is part of the Goulburn Broken Regional Catchment Strategy (2002 – 2007) and incorporates the Shepparton Irrigation Region Land and Water Management Plan (1989). The Victorian Government established the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority in 1997. It is a statutory authority responsible for the coordination of natural resource management programs within the region. Under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994, the Authority is required to prepare a five year Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS) that establishes Framework for Action for Native Vegetation Management, Biodiversity and Salinity Management in the region.

The strategy does not describe in detail how the region intends to meet the range of obligations outlined in legislation. Rather the Regional Catchment Strategy is an overarching document that takes a longer-term view of the challenges and opportunities facing the region. Priority issues and programs have been identified for the period 2002 and 2007. These priorities are described in the Regional Catchment Strategy while the details of the programs to address these issues are found in accompanying sub-strategy documents.

Box-Ironbark Forests and Woodland Investigation – Final Report (2001) This report contains the Environment Conservation Council’s final recommendation for the protection, use and management of Victoria’s Box-Ironbark Forests and Woodlands. It marks the culmination of an investigation process beginning in 1995 by the then Land Conservation Council (LCC).

Other relevant Strategies and Policies:

Local Government and Landcare Action Plan for Nature Conservation in the Goulburn Broken Catchment (1997) Trust for Nature, Melbourne.

Code of Practice for Fire Management on Public Land (1995) Department of Conservation and Environment, Victoria.

Flora and Fauna Guarantee Strategy: Conservation of Victoria’s Biodiversity; Draft prepared under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (1992) Department of Conservation and Environment, Victoria.

Draft Conservation Program for Native Grasslands and Grassy Woodlands in Victoria (1992) Department of Conservation and Environment, Victoria.

Restoring Our Catchments – Victorias Draft Native Vegetation Management Framework (2000) Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

3 ECOLOGICAL VALUES

3.1 Significance of the Reserve in a Regional Context

The Reserve is located in a landscape where native vegetation cover is low due to the clearing of native vegetation for agricultural pursuits. This is shown on an aerial map, Figure 2. While the conservation values of the Reserve are not outstanding, the Reserve does contribute to the regional network of habitat resources provided by remnants of native vegetation across the SIR landscape.

Figure 2. Aerial view of Congupna Bushland Reserve

This site may have value as a “stepping stone” for more mobile species such as birds and bats. The mature population of Red Gum (E. camaldulensis) that occurs along the drainage line maintains the creek bank stability while also providing a range of habitat resources, especially for hollow-dependent fauna.

The Reserve has potential to be a significant education and passive recreation resource given its proximity to Shepparton.

3.2 Physical Aspects

3.2.1 Climate Temperate climatic conditions characterise the Victorian Riverina Bioregion with hot dry summers and mild winters (Figure 3). The mean annual temperature recorded at Lemnos is 21.4°C (www.bom.gov.au, 2004). Winter-spring is the peak rainfall period and the average annual rainfall recorded at Lemnos is 563.2mm (www.bom.gov.au, 2004). Frosts occur in the winter months and drought periods occur every five to ten years (Bennett et al. 1998).

Mean Temperatures and Rainfall Records from Lemnos.

40 80 30 60 Max 20 40 Min mm

Degrees 10 20 Rainfall 0 0

n l p ar ay Ju Ja M M Se Nov Month

Figure 3. Graph displaying the mean temperature and rainfall recorded at Lemnos.

(Data extrapolated from www.bom.gov.au, 2004)

3.2.2. Soil Characteristics

A uniform Congupna Clay Loam occurs throughout the Reserve although heavier Congupna Clay soils occur in association with the creekline (Figure 4). The City of Greater Shepparton previously used the site for soil storage. These mounds of soil were popular with BMX and trail bike riders. The removal of the mounds in 2000 also removed the attraction for BMX and trail bike riders.

Figure 4. Soil Map of Congupna

Bushland Reserve.

3.2.3. Flooding Regimes and Drainage Characteristics

Pine Lodge Creek, which flows through the Reserve, starts in the Dookie Hills at Gowangardie Weir and flows into the Broken Creek. Drain 11 runs along the western boundary of the Reserve. The creek and the drain join at the north west corner of the Reserve and continue on in a northwesterly direction.

A water table monitoring bore was installed at Congupna Bushland Reserve. This bore has been monitored as part of the Waterwatch program. The data from this bore and others across the Shepparton Irrigation Region are used to compile maps of the watertable height. The 1996 watertable height data is used as the reference year by the Shepparton Irrigation Regions Catchment Strategy. The 1996 data is considered to most closely represent those areas that are subject to high watertables. Refer to Figure 4 for the watertable depth at Congupna Bushland Reserve and surrounding areas. The map indicates that the watertable level is greater than 3 metres.

Figure 5. Watertable depth of Congupna Bushland Reserve and Surrounds

3.3 Biological Aspects

3.3.1 Flora

Scattered mature Grey Box (E. microcarpa) in various states of health characterise the vegetation at Congupna Bushland Reserve. The vegetation is a remnant of Plains Grassy Woodland Ecological Vegetation Class. Recent Grey Box (E. microcarpa) regeneration (since the 1993 flood), show some evidence of stress but are generally in good health and recovering from the dry years of 2000 - 2004. Figure 6 displays some of the Grey Box (E.microcarpa) at Congupna Bushland Reserve.

Figure 6. Grey Box (E.microcarpa).

The mature River Red Gums (E. camaldulensis) associated with the creekline appear to be in good health. There are some thick patches of River Red Gum (E. camaldulensis) regeneration are along the creekline. The regeneration is heavily dispersed with Cumbungi (Typha domingensis). Figure 7 shows one of the River Red Gum (E. camaldulensis) patches at the Reserve, with the cumbungi in the background, along the creekline.

Figure 7. River Red Gum (E. camaldulensis) regeneration at the Reserve.

The shrub layer across the Reserve is depleted. Recent revegetation activities have re- introduced a variety of native shrub species back into the Reserve (Figure 8). The shrubs were planted in the southern area, predominantly within the loop of the track and are successful. The shrubs have good shape and size and have seeds and blossoms that provide a source of food for birds.

The native ground vegetation layer of the Reserve is also heavily depleted and is dominated by introduced plants. However the reserve does host a number of native ground cover plants including Wallaby Grass (Austrodanthonia spp), Spear Grass (Austrostipa spp), Blue Bushes (Maireana spp) and a number of other native species. See Appendix Three for a detailed species list. Continued weed reduction activities is one method that aims to encourage the proliferation of native ground cover species.

Figure 8. Healthy wattles in flower. The white pole indicates the location of the water table monitoring bore.

3.3.2. Landscape context

Scattered patches of vegetation occur along Pine Lodge Creek (as indicated in the aerial picture of Figure 2). Improving the quality of aquatic and riparian vegetation would benefit the Reserve as well as the greater area. Efforts to improve the aquatic and riparian vegetation would need to be integrated with works upstream on private property. High nutrient loads and weed propagules will continually enter the Reserve from the surrounding landscape. Landholders along the drainage line are encouraged to improve the health and viability of the creek system through appropriate revegetation and water management. Landholders can access support for these works through incentive schemes available from the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority and Department of Primary Industries.

3.4 Fauna

Small patches of native vegetation such as Congupna Bushland Reserve may not provide abundant habitat resources for a range of species, but they do make an important contribution to “regional systems of habitat” (Bennett et al. 1998) across the landscape. The Reserve for example, may be an important “stepping stone” in the landscape for the more mobile species such as birds and bats.

Fauna surveys have not been conducted at Congupna Bushland Reserve. See “Fragments for the Future” (Bennett et al. 1998) for a comprehensive discussion of Victorian Riverina wildlife, ecological requirements and conservation issues.

Several birds are known to visit the site: Eastern Rosella Platycercus eximius Laughing Kookaburra Dacelo novaeguineae Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides Topknot Pigeon Lopholaimus antarcticus Australian Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen Top-crested Pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys

Common Brushtail Possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) and Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) have been noted by locals at the Congupna Bushland Reserve. Two common pest animals have been seen at the Reserve, Red Fox (Canis vulpes) and Brown Hare (Lepus carpensis). Neither pest animal appears to have made burrows at the Reserve. The Reserve is unlikely to house

populations of either pest animal due to its small size but flora and fauna species will be susceptible the damage they can cause.

4 MANAGEMENT ISSUES

4.1 Reservation Status and Management Authority

The Congupna Bushland Reserve is formally gazetted as Unreserved Crown Land. The Land Conservation Council of Victoria recommended Congupna Bushland Reserve be gazetted as Bushland Reserve in 1985. A request was lodged to Lands Victoria in April 2002 to have this recommendation implemented. The approval of this recommendation is still pending.

4.2 Potential Changes to Reservation Status and Management Authority

4.2.1 Investigation into Box-Ironbark Forests and Woodlands

The Environment Conservation Council (ECC) reviewed the reservation status of Congupna Bushland Reserve as part of the Box-Ironbark Forests and Woodlands Investigation. The purpose of this Investigation was to evaluate the extent, condition, values and uses of Box- Ironbark Forests and Woodlands in Victoria and to make recommendations to Government on the balanced use of these areas (Environment Conservation Council 1997).

The Final Report was completed in June 2001, with the Victorian Government accepting the land tenure recommendations of the ECC Box-Ironbark Investigation late in 2001. The report recommended that the area remain a Bushland Reserve. However these areas are now known as Bushland Areas. Congupna Bushland Reserve will be subject to the general recommendations for a Natural Feature Reserve. The only potential changes to management are grazing generally not be permitted unless required for short periods by the land manager and commercial harvesting of timber is not permitted.

In general the ECC recommendation will not alter the management or the Managing Authority for Congupna Bushland Reserve. See Appendix Two for General Recommendation for Natural Features Reserves.

4.2.2 Native Title Application

Members of the Yorta Yorta community applied for a determination of Native Title relating to various parcels of Crown Land along the Murray, Goulburn and Ovens Rivers in 1995 (reference VG6001 of 1995). The Federal Court in December 1998 turned down this application. Members of the Yorta Yorta community have appealed the Federal Court decision. The outcome of the appeal may also influence the future management of the Congupna Bushland Reserve.

4.3 Current Land Use

4.3.1 Recreation

Recreational usage of the Reserve is low and includes passive activities such as bird watching and nature appreciation.

4.3.1.1 Recreation facilities and opportunities

The construction of recreational facilities such as picnic tables, walking tracks and toilets is not considered essential for this Reserve, due to its small size and environmental significance. The site is not likely to be heavily used by visitors to the area.

The Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group has expressed interest in constructing a footbridge within the Reserve to create access over the creek. The Landcare Group would like internal pedestrian access to the whole Reserve. Currently the only access to the section north of the river and drain is from a gate in the northeast corner, accessed from a private driveway.

Detailed information is to be sought from the group in order to ensure that any structure does not contradict the focus of the Reserve that is based on passive recreation and low visitor number. It is important that structures are kept to a minimum as to not distract from the Reserve’s natural features.

Parks Victoria will work with Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group to identify the best site and solution for a pedestrian stream crossing that complies with relevant standards and specifications, within the Reserve. Any infrastructure however will be installed at Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group’s expense.

4.3.1.2 Rehabilitation, community awareness and education activities

There is an opportunity to promote the natural and botanic values of the Reserve to the wider community. Possible activities include: • the organisation of community field days and native flower walks in spring, and • creation of vehicle access through defining a car parking area.

4.3.2 Trail Bike Riding

Trail bike riders once commonly used the tracks in the Reserve. This has resulted in a large amount of soil disturbance. Since removal of the mounds, trail bike usage has ceased. Without the presence of trail bike riders, there is evidence of regeneration occurring.

4.3.3 Grazing and Soil Disturbance

No grazing licenses are issued for Congupna Bushland Reserve a perimeter fence has been constructed to ensure stock do not stray onto the site.

There is evidence of soil compaction and severe pugging in some parts of the Reserve, which further influences the vegetation composition of the site, usually in favour of introduced species. Cattle appear to have grazed the site when it has been wet causing severe pugging.

Grazing of sheep within the reserve as a management technique for control of weed species and biomass removal may be used in the future. Grazing will only be used on approval and with direction from Parks Victoria. Parks Victoria will consider: • period (time of year/ season and length of time)

• frequency (how often grazed on an annual basis) • intensity (number of stock), when arranging grazing. The period, frequency and intensity should be determined by the outcome and not restricted by DSE (dry sheep equivalent) ratings or other formal agricultural grazing categories. Monitoring of any grazing activities is important to ensure that the goals of grazing are being met and there are benefits to the Reserve.

4.3.4 Fire Wood Collection

It has been observed that illegal firewood collection occurs occasionally in the Reserve. Firewood collection is prohibited in the Reserve. The construction of the boundary fence has helped to reduce the incidence of firewood collection, which can be seen by the branches that are beginning to accumulate on the forest floor. Installation of signage against firewood collection would continue to encourage the accumulation of branches and logs on the forest floor.

4.3.5 Dumping of Rubbish and Garden Waste

The dumping of garden waste and drain clearings has contributed to the spread of environmental weeds in the Reserve. Previously the council contributed to the dumping of soil as well. This practice has now ceased. Fencing of the Reserve has reduced the likelihood of this activity.

4.4 Vegetation Management

4.4.1 Fire Hazard Management

Fire is not considered a major issue for this Reserve. Roads bound the southern and western edges of the Reserve and the Pine Lodge Creek flows through the Reserve alongside a registered drain on the northern boundary. Adjoining the northern boundary is the neighbour’s driveway that provides a firebreak. The neighbouring property along the eastern boundary is heavily grazed. Therefore, there is a low risk of a fire moving into and out of the Reserve.

Parks Victoria and DSE are responsible for fire management within the Reserve.

4.4.2 Weed Management

Weeds that invade bushland areas are termed ‘environmental weeds’, and may include native plants that are ecologically out-of-balance, as well as species introduced from overseas. Environmental weeds and agricultural weeds are not mutually exclusive. Blackberry (Rubus fruticosis) for example can be extremely problematic in both agricultural and natural environments. Once established in bushland areas, environmental weeds can quickly outcompete native plants and by consequence, reduce the diversity of habitat resources available for fauna. Environmental weed species can also alter the rate of accumulation of fine fuels at an invaded site and in this way, alter the flammability of the vegetation.

Clark (1996) identified weed invasion as one of the biggest management issues in Box woodland remnants. Remnants with a high edge to area ratio such as Congupna Bushland Reserve are extremely prone to weed invasion.

Weed control is likely to be an ongoing battle at this Reserve. Well-established populations of various weed taxa that need to be targeted for control include:

Phalaris aquatica Phalaris Avena fatua Wild Oats Bromus diandrus Great Brome Rumex spp Dock Lolium spp Rye grass Lactuca serriola Prickly Lettuce Silybum marianum Varigated Thistle Echium plantagineum Paterson’s Curse Paspalum dilatatum Paspalum Lepidum draba Hoary Cress Cynodon dactylon Couch Grass Rosa rubiginosa Sweet Briar Polygonum arenastrum Hogweed / Wireweed Rubus fruitcosus Blackberry Solanum elaeagnifolium Silver-leaf Nightshade Myriophyllum elatinoides Common Water-milfoil Myriophyllum propinquum Coarse Water-milfoil Rumex brownii Swamp / Slender Dock Sagittaria brevirostrata Arrowhead

The introduced grasses, Phalaris (Phalaris aquatica) and Wild Oats (Avena fatua) dominate the understorey to the almost total exclusion of native grasses and herbs.

Silver Leaf Nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium) will be extremely difficult to control. Paterson’s Curse (Echium plantagineum) occurs within the Reserve. Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) occurs along the creek line. The creekline is also choked with aquatic and moisture-tolerant weeds including Water Milfoil (Myriophyllum elatinoides, M. propinquum) and Swamp Dock (Rumex brownii).

4.4.3 Revegetation

School children, inmates from Dhurringile Prison and other members of the community have participated in revegetation activities. Augmentation of the shrub layer has been the main focus of revegetation programs at Congupna Bushland Reserve. Species planted include: • Bursaria (Bursaria spinosa) • River Bottlebrush (Callistemon sieberi) • Drooping Cassinia/Chinese Scrub (Cassinia arcuata) • Weeping Pittosporum (Pittosporum augustifolium) • Grey Parrot-pea (Dillwynia cinerascens) • Gold-dust Wattle (Acacia acinacea) • Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha) • Willow Wattle (Acacia salicina)

These species are indigenous to the area. However, the source of the seed is not known. Therefore it is recommended that no seed should be collected from these trees and shrubs for revegetation purposes. Figure 9 displays an example of the shrub layer at Congupna Bushland Reserve.

Indigenous species should be used in revegetation programs, as they are best suited to local environmental conditions and more likely to survive. Some non-indigenous species may be able to thrive in new areas without the burden of natural constraints to population growth.

Figure 9. Congupna Bushland Reserve with its planted understorey

4.4.4 Threatened Flora Species Management

A rapid flora assessment was conducted in November 2001. No natural occurring threatened plant species were identified during this survey, however it is possible that there are some threatened species within the Reserve. In the absence of detailed flora information, a comprehensive list of the species present and any information regarding their numbers, distribution and habitat requirements is unavailable. This type of information is extremely important with regard to the ongoing management of the Reserve. It is recommended that Universities and education institutions be encouraged to conduct monitoring and research within the Reserve as part of their curriculums. This information will then be required to further refine this Management Plan, and management actions within the Reserve.

4.5 Wildlife Management

4.5.1 Feral Animal Management

A large number of vertebrates, and an unknown number of invertebrate species have been introduced into the Victorian Riverina. Some of these species impose greater ecological impacts than others, and impacts may vary in accordance with seasonal conditions and the characteristics of the invaded site. Of the ‘feral’ animals observed at Congupna Bushland Reserve, foxes (Canis vulpes) are probably the most problematic. An integrated fox control program would be required both within the Reserve and on surrounding properties to reduce the impact of foxes. Integrating the fox control program with surrounding properties is essential as the small area of the Reserve is unlikely to house many foxes, with most foxes visiting the Reserve. Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are known in the area and may require a targeted control program as well.

4.5.2 Threatened Wildlife Management

It is possible that there are species present within the Reserve that are on the rare or threatened list.

To date there has not been an extensive fauna survey of the Congupna Bushland Reserve and therefore no specific details are available regarding the species present, their population numbers, distribution or habitat requirements. Various bird species such as Eastern Rosella (Platycercus eximus), Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae), Cockatoos (Cacatua galerita) and Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides) have been seen at the Reserve during 2004. The following bird species were recorded nesting during Spring 2004: • Sulphur-crested Cockatoos (Cacatua galerita) • Australian Magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) • Top-crested pigeons (Ocyphaps lophotes) • Willie Wagtail (Rhipidura leucophrys) Native bees are known to visit the site. An adjoining landholder maintains bee hives for honey production underneath his Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) trees.

Details of the fauna present are extremely important with regard to the long-term management of the Congupna Bushland Reserve. It is therefore recommended that Universities and education institutions be encouraged to conduct research within the Congupna Bushland Reserve. The information obtained would then be used to further refine this Management Plan and the management actions.

4.6 Cultural Heritage

Records at Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (AAV, part of the Department for Victorian Communities) indicate that there are currently no registered Aboriginal archaeological sites within or in the immediate vicinity of the Congupna Bushland Reserve. However, as far as can be established, the area has not previously been surveyed for archaeological sites. Therefore it is emphasised that the absence of recorded values within the Reserve does not necessarily indicate that this area is devoid of Aboriginal heritage values.

The available information from the broader region indicates that Aboriginal archaeological sites are likely to be found in association with large and permanent watercourses, adjacent to swamps and seasonally inundated areas, adjacent to creeks and in association with remnant vegetation. It should be noted that Congupna Bushland Reserve encompasses both remnant grassy woodland and the Pine Lodge Creek. Potential cultural heritage sites, when identified, must be reported to AAV and the local Aboriginal organisation/s. Both parties during a cultural heritage assessment would then verify these potential sites.

Parks Victoria encourages an open dialogue with all indigenous communities, particularly in relation to the protection and management of parks and reserves. Any planned works at Congupna Bushland Reserve will require a cultural heritage survey to be undertaken. All cultural heritage surveys conducted are to comply with Parks Victoria policies and procedures.

Under the State Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics Preservation Act 1972 and the Commonwealth Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984, all archaeological sites and relics are protected. Damage or disturbance whether deliberate or inadvertent without a permit is prohibited.

4.7 Salinity, Watertable and Drainage

The regional Watertable map for 2000 indicates that the watertable at the reserve is within two metres of the ground surface. There are two monitoring bores within the reserve. One of these bores is shown in Figure 5. In 2004 the water table is significantly lower due to the drought. The drought has caused all water tables to significantly lower or dry up across the whole Shepparton Irrigation Region. Until the drought is fully over and moisture returns to the soil, the Watertable Watch Program has been suspended.

Pine Lodge Creek and adjoining drains manage the surface water management of Congupna Bushland Reserve. It is important that neighbouring properties have their own plans for surface water drainage. The neighbouring properties influence the quality of the surface water that flows onto the Reserve as well as the volume.

4.8 Surrounding Land Use

Native vegetation cover is very poor in the immediate landscape surrounding the Congupna Bushland Reserve. The Pine Lodge Creek provides the greatest linkage to other remnants in the landscape however the vegetation cover along the creek is not always continuous.

There is potential to link Congupna Bushland Reserve with other remnants through planting along roadsides and on private land adjacent to the Pine Lodge Creek. Adjoining landholders should be encouraged to implement habitat enhancement works on their properties. Incentives may be available for the protection and enhancement of remnant vegetation and wetlands from the DPI Environmental Management Program at Tatura, contact (03) 5833 5222.

4.9 Monitoring the Effectiveness of Management Programs

Monitoring needs to be conducted over the life of the plan at which stage patterns can be evaluated and management strategies reviewed. It is beyond the scope of this Plan to set specific criteria for such a monitoring program. These would need to be developed in concert with a regional monitoring program that investigates specific attributes of biodiversity performance. Such attributes may be transferred from the Goulburn Broken Catchment Native Vegetation Strategy. It is recommended that the following attributes are considered for inclusion in a monitoring program: • local distribution and abundance of Solanum elaeagnifolium and effectiveness of control methods, • local water table levels, and • Eucalyptus dieback

To monitor management strategies affectively, it is essential to select the correct (meaningful) indicators, and ensure these are measured in the right manner, in the right place, at the right time. Monitoring programs need to have clear vision and objective. Firstly the “problem” or attribute to be monitored needs to be defined. Secondly, the information required to assess changes in the status of the particular attribute needs to be determined and the process for obtaining this information developed. Criteria need to be established at the onset of the program and the goals and objectives of management should be integrated with the goals and objectives of monitoring. Monitoring programs should also contain an “in-built” mechanism to identify a threshold when management intervention should occur.

5 MANAGEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

Management recommendations for Congupna Bushland Reserve are presented on the basis of priority. A description of required management actions and the agency or groups responsible for implementing each action are included. It is recognised that the implementation of work is directly related to the funds available to the relevant responsible body.

PRIORITY MANAGEMENT RECOMENDATIONS High (H) Actions of high priority should be implemented as soon as possible, preferably within the first year of the life of this plan. These management actions may or may not require the most resources and commitment. On-going On-going actions to be implemented over the life of the plan. Unless otherwise specified, ongoing actions are to be considered the same priority as high priority actions. Medium (M) Actions of medium priority should also be implemented as soon as possible, but focus should be turned to these actions after high priority actions have been addressed. Low (L) Actions of low priority should be considered after high and medium priority actions have been addressed. As needed Management issues or opportunities that may need to be addressed on an infrequent occasion or when a situation or opportunity develops. To be determined by Parks Victoria in consultation with other stakeholders, including the Congupna- Tallygaroopna Landcare Group and surrounding Landholders.

This management plan will need to be revised and updated, as new information, techniques and/or funding become available.

5.1 Potential Changes to Reservation Status and Management Authority

5.1.1 Reserve Status and Responsible Management Authority

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority After the issues of reservation No capital To be To be As needed status and management cost determined determined responsibility have been required determined, (Determination of Native Title), the responsible management authority needs to assess the management objectives and recommendations in this Plan and make appropriate changes as soon as possible in consult with the relevant stakeholders listed in Appendix One.

5.2 Current Land Use

5.2.1 Recreation

5.2.1.1 Recreation facilities and opportunities Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Due to the small size of the No capital Parks Victoria CTLCG M reserve and its conservation cost significance, facilities such as picnic tables, toilets and rubbish bins are not a priority for this Reserve. Remove dirt mounds created as $1 000 Parks Victoria SIRIC H motor bike jumps and other (Completed) foreign soil matter.

5.2.1.2 Tracks and Access Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority

Install fencing of the Reserve $3 000 SIRIC Parks Victoria H perimeter to reduce CTLCG (Completed) inappropriate access (including stock, trial bike riders, garden waste and general rubbish dumping and timber removal). Existing tracks within the No capital Parks CTLCG H reserve to have low level cost Victoria maintenance. Install 2 lockable gates to $250 Parks SIRIC H

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority prevent stock and motor bike Victoria (Completed) access. Investigate the potential of No capital CTLCG Parks Victoria M installing a pedestrian bridge cost over the creek to provide access to the north side of the creek. If the pedestrian bridge is built, To be CTLCG L it will be the responsibility of determined CTLCG. To limit uncontrolled vehicle No capital CTLCG H access set aside an area for cost Parks (Completed) visitor parking outside the Victoria perimeter fence at the South West corner of the Reserve. Level and gravel the vehicle $300 Parks CTLCG H access area to make suitable for Victoria parking.

5.2.2 Timber Extraction

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Fire wood collection to remain No capital Parks Victoria CTLCG On-going prohibited. cost SIRIC Increase community awareness No capital CTLCG Parks Victoria On-going regarding the importance of cost SIRIC fallen timber for habitat.

5.2.3 Salinity and Watertables

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Water tables are not considered a $250 CTLCG M major threat at this stage but installation SIRIC (Installation should be monitored through the cost. Parks completed) installation of two bores within $800/yr on- Victoria the reserve. going monitoring in kind contribution

5.2.4 Grazing

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Install standard boundary As for 6.2.1.2 SIRIC Parks Victoria H fencing around the perimeter of (Completed)

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority the reserve in order to prohibit uncontrolled grazing. Investigate the potential to graze No capital Parks CTLCG M the reserve with sheep to control cost Victoria SIRIC weed species.

5.3 Vegetation Management

5.3.1 Fire Hazard Management

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Not seen to be a major issue due No capital Parks DSE L to the small size of the reserve cost Victoria and surrounding ‘firebreaks’.

5.3.2 Weed Management

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Noxious weeds within the $200/yr Parks CTLCG H and on- reserve include; Victoria going Silverleaf Nightshade, Peppercorn, Patterson’s Curse. Invasive species requiring $200/yr Parks CTLCG H and on- particular attention include; Victoria SIRIC going Willow (Salix sp) Wild oats (Avena fatua), Phalaris (Phalaris aquatica) Soil disturbance within the reserve should be minimised during weed control activities. Blackberry (Rubus fruticosus) $200/yr GMW Parks Vic H and on- along GMW drain/Pine Lodge CTLCG going Creek.

5.3.3 Revegetation

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Invite local Field Naturalist No capital CTLCG SIRIC On-going Group, University of Melbourne cost Dookie Campus, or other appropriately qualified persons, to work with the Landcare Group in identifying plant species within the reserve and to prepare a plant list. More understorey and ground $1 000 Parks SIRIC On-going cover species should be planted Victoria in the reserve. Indigenous CTLCG species of local provenance should be used wherever possible. Soil disturbance must be minimised as an essential component of revegetation activities in order to protect native ground cover species. Because the source of the seed for No capital Parks H trees and shrubs planted recently cost Victoria is unknown, although indigenous CTLCG to the area, it is recommended that the seed from these plants is not used for future revegetation within the area.

5.4 Wildlife Management

5.4.1 Feral Animal Management

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Undertake control of Foxes $500/yr Parks H and on- within the Reserve. Victoria going Actively encourage surrounding $300/yr plus CTLCG Parks Victoria On-going landholders to obtain ‘Fox off’ $1 000 in bait from Parks Victoria for kind control of foxes on adjacent contribution properties.

5.5 Cultural Heritage

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Any potential sites of No capital Parks CTLCG H and on- archaeological significance to be cost Victoria going reported to Aboriginal Affairs Victoria.

5.6 Surrounding Land Use

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Encourage habitat protection and As required SIRIC CTLCG H and on- improvement on private land in through going the vicinity of Congupna grants Bushland Reserve in order to link program the remnant vegetation of the reserve with other remnants within the region. Advice and financial assistance is available through the DPI.

5.7 Monitoring

Action Estimated Responsible Supporting Priority cost Authority Authority Regularly check the populations $250/yr in Parks CTLCG On-going of feral animals especially foxes, kind Victoria and determine whether contribution additional control programs are required. Monitor watertable bores and No capital CTLCG On-going report data to GMLN Watertable cost, in kind Watch Co-ordinator. contribution

5.8 Ecological Research and Surveys

To achieve best environmental management outcomes for Congupna Bushland Reserve, an adequate understanding of the ecology and conservation status of resident, seasonal and nomadic species is required. The coordination or implementation of such programs however, is presently beyond the scope of Parks Victoria. Many of the programs outlined below would make ideal research projects for University students of Natural Resource Management.

Action Responsible Supporting Priority Authority Authority Continue to promote the potential research SIRIC Parks Victoria M opportunities that exist in the SIR to Universities and TAFE Colleges. The following topics relate to Congupna Bushland Reserve.

Vegetation description and mapping

• Conduct vegetation survey at the Reserve in spring to compile a species list for the site and to determine if significant species are present. • Monitor the dieback in Grey Box (Eucalyptus microcarpa) and its response to revegetation works.

• Monitor the ground species of the Reserve to measure their response to the removal of grazing.

Studies on the faunal composition of Congupna Bushland Area. • Determine the population status and distribution of significant fauna within the Reserve.

5.9 Summary of Estimated Funding Requirements A description of the estimated funding requirements needed by the responsibly body to successfully implement this plan are included. The maintenance costs listed for Parks Victoria are estimates as these activities should be apart of their annual program for pest plant and animals.

5.9.1 Parks Victoria

CAPITAL COSTS $ Spent $ Budget Removal of dirt mounds 1000 Vehicle access area 300 Installation of gates 250 Total capital costs $1 250 $300 ANNUAL MAINTENANCE COSTS Noxious Weeds 200 Invasive Weeds 200 Blackberry control (in liaison with 200 Goulburn Murray Water) Fox Control – on site 500 Fox monitoring 250 Total annual maintenance cost $1 450

5.9.2 Congupna – Tallygaroopna Landcare Group

CAPITAL COSTS $ Spent $ Budget Revegetation 1000 Total capital costs $1000 ANNUAL MAINTENANCE COSTS Fox Control – Off site 300 Total annual maintenance cost $300

5.9.3 Shepparton Irrigation Region Implementation Committee

CAPITAL COSTS $ Spent Installation of perimeter fence 3000 Installation of bores 250 Total capital costs $3 250

6 REFERENCES Bennett A., Brown G., Lumsden L., Hespe D., Krasna S. and Silins J. (1998) Fragments for the Future: Wildlife in the Victorian Riverina (the Northern Plains), Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

Bureau of Meteorology Web Site: http://www.bom.gov.au (September 2004)

Carr G. W., Yugovic J.C. & Robinson K.E. (1992) Environmental Weed Invasions in Victoria: Conservation and Management Implications. Department of Conservation and Environment and Ecological Horticulture Pty. Ltd.

Clark T. (1996) Identification and protection of relict box woodlands in the eastern Victorian Riverina. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

Department of Natural Resources and Environment (1997) Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy: Directions in Management. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria.

Environment Conservation Council (2001) Box-Ironbark Forests & Woodlands Investigation Final Report. Environment Conservation Council

Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (1997) Catchment Strategy – Final. Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority

Goulburn Broken Region Salinity Pilot Program Advisory Council (1989) Draft Shepparton Irrigation Region Land and Water Salinity Management Plan.

Land Conservation Council (1983) Report on the Murray Valley Area. Land Conservation Council, Victoria.

7 APPENDICIES

7.1 Appendix One: Community Consultation

List of Agencies, Groups and Individuals invited to comment on the Draft Management Plan for the Congupna Bushland Reserve.

• Congupna Tallygaroopna Landcare Group • SIR Implementation Committee of the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority • Aboriginal Affairs Victoria ( John Tunn) • Flora and Fauna, Department of Sustainability and Environment • Parks Victoria • Goulburn Murray Water • Broken Creek Field Naturalists • City of Greater Shepparton • John Edwards, Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group • Carolyn Edwards, Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group • David Doyle, Congupna-Tallygaroopna Landcare Group

7.2 Appendix Two: Final Draft ECC recommendations for Natural Feature Reserves (H)

Natural features reserves, according to their specific characteristics, be used to: (a) protect natural features and values; (b) provide opportunities for: (i) education ad passive recreation such as picnicking, walking and where relevant, fishing, and (ii) more intensive recreation such as camping where specified; (c) conserve indigenous flora and fauna; (d) protect areas with remnant vegetation or habitat value; (e) provide protection for historic and Aboriginal cultural values and sites; (f) preserve features of geological or geomorphological interest; (g) maintain scenic features and the character and quality of the local landscape; and: (h) commercial timber harvesting not be permitted; (i) some firewood may be available from thinning for ecological management, subject to research and the approval of the land manager, (j) exploration for minerals be permitted, and mining, subject to decisions on particular cases; (k) prospecting and apiculture be generally permitted; (l) grazing generally not be permitted, unless required for short periods by the land manager; (m) unused road reserves adjoining natural feature reserves be added to those reserves where appropriate; and they be permanently reserved under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978, and managed by the Department of Natural Resources (now Department of Sustainability and Environment).

7.3 Appendix Three: Flora List A rapid flora survey was undertaken on the 20th of November 2001. A more detailed survey is required.

Scientific Common Name Austrodanthonia spp Wallaby Grass Austrodanthonia spp Wallaby Grass Phalaris aquatica* Phalaris Avena fatua* Wild Oats Bromus diandrus* Great Brome Plantago laceolata* Ribwort Carex inversa Knob Sedge Oxalis corniculata Yellow Wood Sorrel Rumex spp* Dock Trifolium angustifolium* Narrow leaf Clover Eucalyptus microcarpa Grey Box Eucalyptus camaldulensis Red Gum Lolium spp* Rye Grass Alternanthera denticulata Lesser Joyweed Lactuca serriola* Prickly Lettuce Sclerolaena muricata Black Roly-poly Lomandra filiformis Wattle Mat-rush Chamaesyce drummondii Milkweed Echium plantagineum* Paterson’s Curse Bromus catharticus* Prairie Grass Hypochoeris radicata* Cat’s Ear Bothriochloa macra Red-leg Grass Amphibromis neesii Southern Swamp Wallaby Grass Elymus scaber var. scaber Common Wheat Grass Typha domingensis Cumbungi (narrow leaf) Asphodelus fistulosus* Onion Weed Paspalum dilatatum* Paspalum Lepidum draba* Hoary Cress Hordeum leporinum* Barley Grass Cynodon dactylon* Couch Grass Carex inversa Knob Sedge Rosa rubiginosa* Sweet Briar Whalleya proluta Rigid Panic Conyza spp* Fleabane Austrostipa spp Speargrass Austrostipa variabilis Variable Speargrass Helminthotheca echioides* Ox-tongue Epilobium hirtigerum Hairy Willow-herb Sida corrugata Variable / Corrugated Sida Maireana enchylaenoides Wingless Fissure – Weed or Wingless Bluebush Cirsium vulgare* Spear Thistle Pimelea curviflora Curved Rice-flower Polygonum arenastrum* Hogweed / Wireweed Silybum marianum* Varigated thistle Sagittaria brevirostrata* Arrowhead